Awesome Marriage Podcast

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• Seeing Your Marriage as Part of God's Bigger Story with Randy and Rozanne Frazee Ep. 736 30.06.2026 52мин

  What if marriage was never meant to be primarily about your happiness? In this episode, Dr. Kim sits down with Randy and Rozanne Frazee, authors of Encountering God's Love from Genesis to Revelation, to explore how God's design for marriage is part of a much bigger story. Together, they discuss how understanding God's love throughout Scripture can transform the way couples view their relationship, shifting the focus from chasing happiness to living out a covenant that reflects Christ's love. Randy and Rozanne share wisdom from their own marriage, practical ways couples can encounter God together, and encouragement for those who feel spiritually disconnected. You'll learn why spiritual intimacy doesn't require grand gestures, how your relationship with God directly impacts your relationship with your spouse, and why counseling can be one of the healthiest investments you make before a crisis ever arrives. Whether you're in a thriving season or feeling stuck, this conversation will help you see your marriage through a wider lens, one that is rooted in God's purpose, sustained by His love, and strengthened through intentional connection. Episode Highlights Marriage Was Designed for More Than Happiness How God's Bigger Story Gives Marriage Greater Purpose Your Relationship with God Shapes Your Relationship with Your Spouse Simple Ways to Build Spiritual Intimacy Together Why Counseling Should Be Preventative, Not Just a Last Resort Practical Steps for Reconnecting When You Feel Spiritually Disconnected Key Takeaway The healthiest marriages aren't built by pursuing happiness first. They're built by pursuing God together, faithfully living out your covenant commitment, and allowing His love to shape the way you love one another. Quotes from This Episode:  Randy Frazee Quotes "The closer we move to Christ, the closer we move to each other." "Marriage is really more about sacrifice. God instills this amazing agape love in you, and your job is to pour it out to others—especially your spouse." "The pursuit wasn't happiness. The pursuit was fulfilling our covenant commitment. As a result of that, we received happiness." "When you go after the feeling of happiness, it almost always devastates the relationship you're in. When you go after the responsibility of being like Christ for the sake of others, happiness often follows." "Marriages don't drift toward intimacy—they drift toward chaos. That's why intentionality matters." "The love you have to offer apart from God will eventually get you into trouble. You need God's love flowing into you before it can flow through you." Rozanne Frazee Quotes "I can't put expectations on him because he will always let me down. God will never let me down." "Marriage in Scripture is never presented as a right. It's presented as a responsibility." "The wall of resentment goes up very quickly, but it comes down one brick at a time." "Knowing that God loves me unconditionally gives me the freedom to risk loving another person." "If you want your husband to become more of a spiritual leader, encourage what he's doing instead of criticizing what he's not doing." "As you grow closer to God, you'll naturally grow closer to each other." "Don't wait until the last minute to get help. Go early. Go often. Go preventatively." Dr. Kim Quotes "We can't put our marriage on the back burner for eighteen years while we raise kids and expect it to still be thriving when they're gone." "You'll never regret carving out intentional time for your marriage, but you will regret not doing it." "Your obedience is to God. Keep doing what God is calling you to do, whether your spouse responds immediately or not." "A thirty-second prayer, a verse of the day, a simple step—just start somewhere. God can grow it from there." "What makes the difference isn't doing marriage perfectly—it's continually coming back to God's design for it." "Sometimes the most important thing a couple can do is simply make the time to reconnect."   Time to Talk About It:  What is one thing you see God doing in me (your spouse)  right now that you appreciate and want to encourage?  Have there been times when we've expected each other to meet needs that really need to be taken to God first? What's one small thing we could do this week to be more intentional about growing closer to God together? Is there anything we've been putting off talking about that would be better to address now instead of letting it sit?   Mentioned in this Episode: Get your copy of Encountering God's Love from Genesis to Revelation Check out Awesome Marriage's Two Week Scripture Challenge with your spouse. Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Check out our Men of Virtue plan. Dr. Kim dives into the lives of five extraordinary men whose lives are still shaping ours today.  If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Be the first to hear about all things Awesome Marriage, receive monthly bonus content straight from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy, and take advantage of big discounts by becoming a Marriage Changer!   
• Wider Lens: Redefining Success with Tom Pfeifer Part 1 Ep. 735 26.06.2026 26мин

  What does it mean to build a life that truly matters? In this episode of The Wider Lens, Dr. Kim sits down with Tom Pfeiffer, former Air Force JAG officer, attorney, coach, trainer, husband, and dad, to talk about the experiences and values that shaped him. From growing up in a blue-collar family on Long Island to playing college football, serving in the military, and eventually leaving a successful legal career to pursue a different calling, Tom shares lessons on work ethic, purpose, fatherhood, and taking risks. Along the way, they discuss the importance of showing up for your kids, the life lessons sports can teach, and why success on paper isn't always the same as fulfillment. This conversation will challenge you to think about the legacy you're building and the choices that matter most. Episode Highlights: Why the best lessons in life often happen outside the classroom The impact of a father who always showed up How to pursue purpose over prestige and redefine success Tune in for an honest conversation about work, family, calling, and what it means to live with intention. Quotes from Tom Pfeifer: "For me, it was a non-negotiable starting point. I'm just going to be there." "Now I have margin in my life. On a Tuesday afternoon, I can block my calendar and just hang out with my kids." "Everything you do has a cost." "Every yes, every extra commitment, every extra dinner—that's time you're taking away from something else." "Most kids just want somebody to say, 'I'm proud of you.'"  At what cost do you continue doing something that looks successful on paper but leaves a void inside?"  "When things are scarce in your life, you become hyper-focused on getting them."  "Your kids aren't going to remember how hard you worked. They're going to remember that you were there."    Time to Talk About it: What is one area of your life where you're pursuing success, and what might it be costing you in your relationships, faith, or personal well-being? When you think about the people who impacted you most growing up, what did they do that made you feel valued—and how can you offer that same gift to others today? If your children, family, or closest friends described the legacy you're building right now, what would they say matters most to you? Is that the legacy you want to leave?  
• Can Two People Love Jesus and Still Be Spiritually Mismatched? Ep. 734 23.06.2026 15мин

  Prayer, Bible reading, and spiritual leadership are all good things, but what happens when faith becomes a source of tension instead of connection in marriage? In this episode, Dr. Kim tackle the unhealthy spiritual dynamics that can quietly create distance between spouses: spiritual superiority, spiritual withdrawal, and using faith as a weapon. While most couples don't intend to hurt each other spiritually, it's easy to fall into patterns that leave one spouse feeling judged, inadequate, or alone. He discusses why spiritual loneliness can be so painful in marriage, how comparison and pressure shut down connection, and what it looks like to pursue spiritual intimacy in a way that invites both spouses closer to God and each other. If you've ever felt frustrated that your spouse isn't where you'd like them to be spiritually, or if you've ever felt like you could never measure up, this conversation offers practical encouragement and hope for building a healthier, more united spiritual foundation.   Episode Highlights: When Faith Creates Distance Instead of Connection  The Hidden Damage of Spiritual Superiority and Withdrawal  Moving from Weaponized Faith to Shared Faith    Quotes from This Episode: God designed marriage as the most intimate of all earthly relationships. There's a oneness God intended for marriage that touches every aspect of life.  When one spouse longs to pray together and it never happens, it doesn't just feel frustrating it feels lonely.  Loneliness can turn into resentment or even despair.  Nothing will shut your spouse down faster than feeling spiritually inferior in their own home.  The spouse that feels like they can never measure up will stop engaging.  When scripture becomes a sword instead of a shared foundation something has gone badly wrong.  Spiritual growth cannot be forced. You can model it. You can invite. But you cannot drag your spouse into a deeper faith any more than someone could have dragged you. God does that work.   Time to Talk About it: Are you feeling disconnected from your spouse spiritually?  If you are, have you approached your spouse honestly with your concerns? Ask them: How can we use our faith to encourage each other rather than pressure, correct, or compare one another?    Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Do you feel misunderstood and defeated when it comes to disagreements with your spouse? Feeling misunderstood in conflict is usually a sign of something deeper. This assessment walks you through what needs to change, step by step. Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. If you're feeling disconnected from your spouse, try this plan together: 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage. If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• Can Two People Love Jesus and Still Be Spiritually Mismatched? Ep. 734 23.06.2026 15мин

  Prayer, Bible reading, and spiritual leadership are all good things, but what happens when faith becomes a source of tension instead of connection in marriage? In this episode, Dr. Kim tackle the unhealthy spiritual dynamics that can quietly create distance between spouses: spiritual superiority, spiritual withdrawal, and using faith as a weapon. While most couples don't intend to hurt each other spiritually, it's easy to fall into patterns that leave one spouse feeling judged, inadequate, or alone. He discusses why spiritual loneliness can be so painful in marriage, how comparison and pressure shut down connection, and what it looks like to pursue spiritual intimacy in a way that invites both spouses closer to God and each other. If you've ever felt frustrated that your spouse isn't where you'd like them to be spiritually, or if you've ever felt like you could never measure up, this conversation offers practical encouragement and hope for building a healthier, more united spiritual foundation.   Episode Highlights: When Faith Creates Distance Instead of Connection  The Hidden Damage of Spiritual Superiority and Withdrawal  Moving from Weaponized Faith to Shared Faith    Quotes from This Episode: God designed marriage as the most intimate of all earthly relationships. There's a oneness God intended for marriage that touches every aspect of life.  When one spouse longs to pray together and it never happens, it doesn't just feel frustrating it feels lonely.  Loneliness can turn into resentment or even despair.  Nothing will shut your spouse down faster than feeling spiritually inferior in their own home.  The spouse that feels like they can never measure up will stop engaging.  When scripture becomes a sword instead of a shared foundation something has gone badly wrong.  Spiritual growth cannot be forced. You can model it. You can invite. But you cannot drag your spouse into a deeper faith any more than someone could have dragged you. God does that work.   Time to Talk About it: Are you feeling disconnected from your spouse spiritually?  If you are, have you approached your spouse honestly with your concerns? Ask them: How can we use our faith to encourage each other rather than pressure, correct, or compare one another?    Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Do you feel misunderstood and defeated when it comes to disagreements with your spouse? Feeling misunderstood in conflict is usually a sign of something deeper. This assessment walks you through what needs to change, step by step. Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. If you're feeling disconnected from your spouse, try this plan together: 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage. If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• Can Two People Love Jesus and Still Be Spiritually Mismatched? Ep. 734 23.06.2026 15мин

  Prayer, Bible reading, and spiritual leadership are all good things, but what happens when faith becomes a source of tension instead of connection in marriage? In this episode, Dr. Kim tackle the unhealthy spiritual dynamics that can quietly create distance between spouses: spiritual superiority, spiritual withdrawal, and using faith as a weapon. While most couples don't intend to hurt each other spiritually, it's easy to fall into patterns that leave one spouse feeling judged, inadequate, or alone. He discusses why spiritual loneliness can be so painful in marriage, how comparison and pressure shut down connection, and what it looks like to pursue spiritual intimacy in a way that invites both spouses closer to God and each other. If you've ever felt frustrated that your spouse isn't where you'd like them to be spiritually, or if you've ever felt like you could never measure up, this conversation offers practical encouragement and hope for building a healthier, more united spiritual foundation.   Episode Highlights: When Faith Creates Distance Instead of Connection  The Hidden Damage of Spiritual Superiority and Withdrawal  Moving from Weaponized Faith to Shared Faith    Quotes from This Episode: God designed marriage as the most intimate of all earthly relationships. There's a oneness God intended for marriage that touches every aspect of life.  When one spouse longs to pray together and it never happens, it doesn't just feel frustrating it feels lonely.  Loneliness can turn into resentment or even despair.  Nothing will shut your spouse down faster than feeling spiritually inferior in their own home.  The spouse that feels like they can never measure up will stop engaging.  When scripture becomes a sword instead of a shared foundation something has gone badly wrong.  Spiritual growth cannot be forced. You can model it. You can invite. But you cannot drag your spouse into a deeper faith any more than someone could have dragged you. God does that work.   Time to Talk About it: Are you feeling disconnected from your spouse spiritually?  If you are, have you approached your spouse honestly with your concerns? Ask them: How can we use our faith to encourage each other rather than pressure, correct, or compare one another?    Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Do you feel misunderstood and defeated when it comes to disagreements with your spouse? Feeling misunderstood in conflict is usually a sign of something deeper. This assessment walks you through what needs to change, step by step. Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. If you're feeling disconnected from your spouse, try this plan together: 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage. If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• The Love Language That Matters Most with Dr. Gary Chapman Ep. 733 16.06.2026 1ч

  In this episode of the Awesome Marriage Podcast, Dr. Kim sits down with bestselling author Gary Chapman for a practical and honest conversation about what it really looks like to keep a marriage growing, not just surviving. They talk about why marriages don't just "stay the same," how couples slowly drift without realizing it, and what it takes to stay emotionally connected over time. Gary unpacks how love languages can shift through different seasons of life, why assumptions create so many problems, and how simple things like curiosity, communication, and daily check-ins can completely change the tone of a relationship. If you've ever felt like you and your spouse are just "off" lately, or you want to be more intentional about loving well, this conversation gives you real, doable ways to start moving back toward each other again.   Episode Highlights: Without intentional effort, connection naturally fades into distance or "roommate mode."  Couples often miss each other because they're expressing love in ways that feel right to them, not in ways that actually land with their spouse.  When couples stay teachable and intentional, even conflict becomes an opportunity for deeper connection.    Quotes from this Episode: Gary Chapman: "Marriage is either going to grow or regress—there's really no drifting in place." "I don't talk about a perfect marriage. I talk about a growing marriage." "Life satisfaction is found in relationships, not in the accumulation of things." "We cannot read each other's minds—you have to ask questions and listen." "The objective is not to win the argument—the objective is to find a solution together." "It's no fun to live with a loser. Why would you create a loser? You're on the same team." "Love has to be communicated in a way that's meaningful to the other person."     Kim Kimberling: "I don't think I'll ever learn everything there is to know about Nancy in a lifetime." "Marriage is an adventure because you're always discovering new things about each other." "If you're not feeling loved, turn into your marriage—not outside of it." "Assumptions in marriage are usually way off." "The distractions we entertain today are often stealing the connection we could be building at home." "There's so much value in the person God put in front of you to do life with." "Small, intentional steps done consistently really do make a difference over time." Time to Talk About it: Where in our marriage are we currently growing—and where might we actually be drifting without realizing it? In what ways am I trying to show love to my spouse, and are those actually the ways they most feel loved? How well do we really ask questions and stay curious about each other instead of assuming we already know what the other thinks or feels? What would it look like for us to build a simple daily rhythm of connection (even 10–15 minutes) to stay emotionally close? Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Take the Love Languages test. Get your copy of The Love Language That Matters Most. Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Unpack what scripture says about how to demonstrate love well in your marriage with our plan: Speak to Their Heart: 5 Ways to Love Your Spouse Well If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!
• The Love Language That Matters Most with Dr. Gary Chapman Ep. 733 16.06.2026 1ч

  In this episode of the Awesome Marriage Podcast, Dr. Kim sits down with bestselling author Gary Chapman for a practical and honest conversation about what it really looks like to keep a marriage growing, not just surviving. They talk about why marriages don't just "stay the same," how couples slowly drift without realizing it, and what it takes to stay emotionally connected over time. Gary unpacks how love languages can shift through different seasons of life, why assumptions create so many problems, and how simple things like curiosity, communication, and daily check-ins can completely change the tone of a relationship. If you've ever felt like you and your spouse are just "off" lately, or you want to be more intentional about loving well, this conversation gives you real, doable ways to start moving back toward each other again.   Episode Highlights: Without intentional effort, connection naturally fades into distance or "roommate mode."  Couples often miss each other because they're expressing love in ways that feel right to them, not in ways that actually land with their spouse.  When couples stay teachable and intentional, even conflict becomes an opportunity for deeper connection.    Quotes from this Episode: Gary Chapman: "Marriage is either going to grow or regress—there's really no drifting in place." "I don't talk about a perfect marriage. I talk about a growing marriage." "Life satisfaction is found in relationships, not in the accumulation of things." "We cannot read each other's minds—you have to ask questions and listen." "The objective is not to win the argument—the objective is to find a solution together." "It's no fun to live with a loser. Why would you create a loser? You're on the same team." "Love has to be communicated in a way that's meaningful to the other person."     Kim Kimberling: "I don't think I'll ever learn everything there is to know about Nancy in a lifetime." "Marriage is an adventure because you're always discovering new things about each other." "If you're not feeling loved, turn into your marriage—not outside of it." "Assumptions in marriage are usually way off." "The distractions we entertain today are often stealing the connection we could be building at home." "There's so much value in the person God put in front of you to do life with." "Small, intentional steps done consistently really do make a difference over time." Time to Talk About it: Where in our marriage are we currently growing—and where might we actually be drifting without realizing it? In what ways am I trying to show love to my spouse, and are those actually the ways they most feel loved? How well do we really ask questions and stay curious about each other instead of assuming we already know what the other thinks or feels? What would it look like for us to build a simple daily rhythm of connection (even 10–15 minutes) to stay emotionally close? Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Take the Love Languages test. Get your copy of The Love Language That Matters Most. Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Unpack what scripture says about how to demonstrate love well in your marriage with our plan: Speak to Their Heart: 5 Ways to Love Your Spouse Well If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!
• Marriage Should Be Fun—So Why Isn't It? Ep. 732 09.06.2026 18мин

  Marriage isn't supposed to be all work and no play. But somewhere between busy schedules, responsibilities, stress, and everyday life, a lot of couples find themselves feeling more like roommates than best friends. In this episode, Dr. Kim and Nancy talk about why fun matters so much in marriage, how couples gradually lose it, and what it takes to bring it back. Whether your marriage feels stuck in a rut or you simply miss enjoying each other the way you once did, this conversation offers practical encouragement and simple ways to reconnect. Tune in as they discuss the signs that fun has faded, why couples often settle for "fine," and how even small moments of laughter, playfulness, and intentional connection can help strengthen your relationship. Plus, you'll walk away with one simple challenge you can put into practice this week. If your marriage could use a little more joy, this episode is for you.   Episode Highlights: Why fun matters more than you think What's causing the joy to fade How to reconnect and enjoy each other again   Quotes from this Episode: It's not exactly what we do, it's how we feel when we are doing something together. Losing fun doesn't happen overnight. You start feeling kindof bored together so you stop laughing together. You stop talking. You quit interacting. I don't think in a lifetime you can learn everything about your spouse. You have to stay curious. Life isn't all about fun. But fun does sure make a lot of life go better. If you're just coasting, you're missing out on so much of what God has for you in marriage.  Time to Talk About it: When we dated, how would you rate our fun 1-10? How would you rate it now? Are we using efficiency as an excuse to neglect intentionality?  What do you enjoy doing with me (with spouse) for fun? When is our next date night?    Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Marriage should be FUN! That's why we created this resource: 14 Days of Marriage Fun Has date night gotten boring? Here are some pre planned date ideas! Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Intentionality is key for a healthy marriage. Commit to our free One Thing to Grow Your Marriage plan.  If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• Build Your Marriage with Prayer with Brad and Heidi Mitchell Ep. 731 02.06.2026 53мин

  One of the greatest privileges we have as spouses is coming before the Father and lifting up our marriage—leaning on Him for protection, provision, and strength. Today, special guests Brad and Heidi Mitchell join Dr. Kim to talk about how foundational prayer is for intimacy and the overall climate of your marriage. Many couples struggle to develop this rhythm—not because they don't want to, but because they simply don't know where to start. Be encouraged today as Brad and Heidi share from their newest book, Build Your Marriage With Prayer, and talk about how guided prayers, daily readings, and reflection questions can help couples grow a consistent and meaningful prayer life together.   Episode Highlights: Husbands don't have to know it all to lead- they can be simply willing to initiate. Wives can come alongside and encourage their husbands to step into the role God created them for.  Don't weaponize prayer against your spouse. Quotes from this Episode: Kim Kimberling Quotes: "The first time Nancy and I really started praying for something together and saw God show up, it was like, 'This is awesome.'" "Prayer bonds us together in a way nothing else really can." "Most guys feel inadequate spiritually, but prayer was never about performing." "You don't have to know more than your spouse to lead spiritually—you just have to initiate." "When couples begin praying together, they stop fighting against each other and start fighting for each other." "Inviting God into conflict changes conflict from something destructive into something that can grow your marriage." "The more we pray, the more prayer becomes part of the fabric of who we are." "God wants to be involved in the middle of our everyday lives—not just the big emergencies." "When you pray over your spouse, it creates empathy, connection, and unity." "Prayer gives God a chance to show up in your marriage over and over again." Brad Mitchell Quotes: "A lot of men don't pray with their wives because they're afraid of looking inadequate." "Men don't need to be spiritual experts—they just need to become spiritual initiators." "The things you most want to lean away from are often the very places God wants you to lean in." "When you pray about the issue instead of against each other, nobody wins or loses—God wins." "The enemy whispers, 'You're not good at this,' because he knows how powerful prayer is in marriage." "Every wife would love for her husband to stop and pray over her before the day begins." "Surrendering your schedule to God changes interruptions from frustrations into opportunities." "Prayer protects your marriage because it keeps both of you surrendered to God instead of fighting each other." Heidi Mitchell Quotes: "Make prayer a positive experience for your spouse, not a performance." "There's really no wrong way to come before God together." "Encouragement from a wife can completely change a husband's confidence in leading spiritually." "If prayer becomes weaponized, couples will stop wanting to pray together." "Not every thought deserves a place to stay in your mind." "Ask yourself: Does this thought line up with who God says my spouse is?" "Praying together helped us move from surface-level faith into authentic dependence on God." "When my husband prays for me, I feel protected, cared for, and truly seen." "The spiritual connection we share through prayer has become one of the greatest strengths in our marriage." Time to Talk About it: What would it look like for us to make prayer feel more natural and encouraging in our relationship instead of pressured or performative? Is there an area of our marriage right now where we've been "fighting each other" instead of "fighting for each other," and how could prayer help shift that? Mentioned in this Episode: Build Your Marriage is on Instagram! Purchase your own copy of Build Your Marriage With Prayer! Check out Awesome Marriage's 9 Days to Build the Practice of Prayer in Marriage Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. You'll love our 30 Scripture Based Prayers for Your Marriage. Check out it out with your spouse! If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  Be the first to hear about all things Awesome Marriage, receive monthly bonus content straight from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy, and take advantage of big discounts by becoming a Marriage Changer!   
• Wider Lens: Breaking the Silence: Pornography, Leadership, and Freedom with Matt Cline Ep. 730 29.05.2026 53мин

  My good friend Matt Cline is here with me today to talk through the cultural epidemic of pornography. We are diving into the deeper roots behind sexual sin, temptation, and transformation. Matt discusses why behavior modification alone isn't enough, how our view of sex shapes the way we lead and relate to others, and why isolation keeps people stuck. Explore how true freedom comes through renewing the mind, pursuing Christlikeness, and allowing God to transform us from the inside out.    Episode Highlights: Surface-level behavior change isn't enough—you have to deal with the root issue. The way we follow Christ should shape the way we think about sex and intimacy. Hidden sexual sin doesn't stay isolated—it affects every relationship around us. Sexual immorality pulls us toward selfishness instead of self-giving love. God invites you to live in His grace and the freedom He offers. Quotes from this Conversation: Matt: Love, living in love and engaging in sexual immorality cannot happen at the same time.  The purpose for our sexual desire is a training ground for Christlikeness. For dying to self and stewarding our urges. Accountability should not be focused simply on not sinning. Temptation is simply an opportunity for transformation.  I tried to quit the sin for so long without ever learning how to renew my mind. Never learning how to think like Jesus in the sexual area of my life.  The amount of perversion in our faces all the time, lends to us justifying "lesser sins." You can get rid of the behavior but what about the worldview or the view on sex that has been established in you that you have not yet had renewed?   Dr. Kim: Isolation does nothing good for us at all. Isolation when we're dealing with something negative should not be something that we do. We give people hope because not in us and not our ministries, but in this God who created us. I want to know Nancy loves me even with everything out on the table.  Time to Talk About It: Are there areas in my life where I've focused more on behavior management than true heart transformation? How has my worldview around sex, intimacy, or temptation been shaped more by culture than by Christ? When I struggle, do I tend to isolate myself or invite trusted people into honesty, accountability, and healing?   Mentioned in This Episode: Check out what Matt is doing at Restored Ministries If your marriage is struggling with betrayal, check out our course: Marriage Undefiled  
• Foundational First Year: What Every Couple Needs to Know | Ep. 729 26.05.2026 22мин

  Marriage was never promised to be easy, light, or always enjoyable—but when both spouses are committed wholeheartedly, it can endure even the hardest seasons. In this episode, Dr. Kim unpacks the foundational truths that help build a healthy, lasting marriage: honest communication, emotional safety, gratitude, faith, and learning how to work through conflict instead of avoiding it. He also shares what it looks like to start fresh without carrying the weight of past mistakes and why the struggles couples face—especially in the early years—don't mean something is wrong. Whether you're newly married or decades in, this episode offers practical encouragement to help you strengthen your relationship and build a marriage grounded in a foundation that lasts. Episode Highlights: "Becoming" is a process and it doesn't happen at the altar.  The decisions that shape a marriage most aren't the big dramatic ones.  Keep having fun together, year after year. If this is your second marriage- things don't have to be the same! Quotes from this episode: When faith is at the center of your marriage it changes the source of your security. You're no longer looking to your spouse to provide what only God can provide. The first year is not the best year- and that's ok. The friction you feel is not a sign that something is wrong. It's a sign that you are doing the real work of two becoming one. Avoiding the conversation doesn't make the problem disappear. The conversations you tend to avoid are the ones that can make or break a marriage.  Your spouse is not a mind reader and neither are you.  Communication is not a failure of love. It's an expression of it.  The cultural model asks "what am I getting out of this?" The biblical model asks "what am I bringing to this?" Avoidance builds walls. Couples who pray together, seek wisdom together, and bring God into the center or their disagreements have a resource that other couples just don't have.  Your spouse should feel like they can be honest with you without being punished for it. If they feel like they have to manage your reactions before they can be truthful, you've built a marriage where honesty is not safe.  Life administration isn't connection.  Gratitude is a muscle and in marriage it needs regular exercise.  Time to talk about it?  What do we expect from each other sexually? Are we spiritually moving in the same direction?  How was conflict handled in your home growing up?  Have we let anything go unaddressed? Are we protecting our time together? Mentioned in this Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Make space to talk about the marriage itself with our FREE Weekly Marriage Check in Guide! Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Dr. Kim takes everyday 'traffic signs' that we all encounter and applies them to growing your marriage relationship in this plan: Traffic Signs and Your Marriage - Part 1 If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• Faith Over Culture: Building a Marriage That Stands with Aaron and Amy Graham Ep. 728 19.05.2026 59мин

  In a culture that constantly redefines truth, how do you build a marriage that actually stands firm? Dr. Kim sits down with Aaron and Amy Graham to talk about choosing faith over culture and why most marriages don't fall apart overnight—they slowly drift as outside voices shape what we believe about love, identity, and purpose. The Grahams challenge couples to examine those influences, guard their identity, and remember that marriage was designed for more than just their own happiness. This conversation is a powerful reminder that your spouse isn't meant to meet every need—and that intimacy with God is the foundation for a thriving marriage.   Episode highlights: Drifting is a slow process. If we are to live a life that goes against culture, we must know truth and live by it.  Marriage has a greater mission than just your happiness. Quotes from this Episode: The Grahams: If the church doesn't disciple people, the world gladly will. What does it look like to stand firm in a marriage? It's to not give the devil a foothold. Sometimes we don't realize how we have subtly imported a secular worldview into every area of our life.  The enemy doesn't want to just tempt us to sin. He wants to reshape our identity and distort our worship.  God has designed us for intimacy and that starts in our marriage relationship.  We have to go into our marriage understanding that our spouse isn't going to solve all of our loneliness. We have to have relationship with God.  The secular lie is that we determine what truth is: my feelings, my version of the truth. Marriage sometimes can become an idol for people when they don't have a bigger mission than just marriage. Because your marriage can become self centered- what the main mission- it's not just your happiness.  Dr. Kim: So much of our faith is knowing that this God who created everything loves us conditionally in a culture where nobody loves us unconditionally- sometimes that's hard to get a hold of. Selfishness is something we have to be aware of our whole marriage because we can fall into that trap.  God is never going to do anything in you that is not good for your marriage.  Time to talk about it: Are there ideas we need to deconstruct in our marriage?  What voices are we allowing to speak into our marriage? Do they align with the Truth? What disciplines do we need to implement to show that our marriage is a priority and to honor the union that God has brought together?    Mentioned in This Episode: Connect with Aaron and Amy Graham. Get your own copy of Unshakeable Faith Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Make sure you're praying for your marriage! We make it easy with this prayer guide: 21 Prayers for Building an Awesome Marriage Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. If you know you should pray with your spouse or for your spouse but don't know where to start? Check out: 7 Prayers to Grow Your Marriage Unmet expectations can wreak havoc on your marriage. You need this brand new resource: The Marriage Expectations Worksheet If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• Why Everything Feels Personal (And How to Change That) Ep. 727 12.05.2026 21мин

  Have you ever gotten to the point in your marriage where your spouse felt more like the enemy than the person you committed to stand by in sickness and in health? What used to feel easy now feels tense. Conversations turn into misunderstandings. Small things feel big. Or maybe it's not conflict, it's distance. You're living side by side, but feeling miles apart. Somewhere along the way, everything started to feel… personal. And today, we're talking about why that happens, and how to change it.   Episode Highights: It's not you vs. your spouse. It's you both vs the pattern. Your thought life shapes your marriage Healing and gratitude change everything.    Quotes from Today's Episode: One moment doesn't define your marriage.- Mrs. Nancy The more I'm grateful for who Nancy is in my life, it's so much easier to say "no, I'm not talking this personal." People get ticked off for so many easy things nowadays and it's easy to get sucked into that. We don't want to look at ourselves. If I can blame Nancy then I can stay with that and not have to blame myself. God had to work on me. Our negative thinking can take over so much of the time. That negative thought process- and I have to go back to Romans 12: 2. Renewing our mind. That's the key.- Mrs. Nancy If there are old wounds, we have to take care of those.  Time to Talk About it: Do you feel like I do things just to upset you? If so, how can we resolve this? List out 5 things you are grateful for about your spouse. Share them with one another.    Mentioned in this Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Unmet expectations can wreak havoc on your marriage. You need this brand new resource: The Marriage Expectations Worksheet Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Summer is coming and the beach is calling, and the Lord can use the ocean to speak encouragement into your marriage- see for yourself Islands, Tides and the Deep: A Marriage Message from the Sea If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer this month, you'll receive our brand new Marriage Expectations Worksheet. This powerful tool is going to change the way you think about and talk about expectations in your marriage.  
• 9 Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage: And the Truths That Will Save It and Set It Free with Dr. Smalley Ep. 726 05.05.2026 1ч 7мин

  In a culture that blurs truth and deception, marriages can easily absorb beliefs that slowly damage connection and trust. In this episode, Dr. Greg Smalley joins us to uncover the lies that are hitting marriages the hardest—and the truths that can set couples free. We talk about why marriages are so vulnerable to these lies, how stress and unmet expectations make them worse, and how emotional distance and internal narratives shape the way we see our spouse. Dr. Smalley also shares practical ways to recognize and replace these lies with truth, plus insight from his own marriage. If you've ever felt stuck in negative patterns or discouraged in your relationship, this episode will help you reset your perspective and refocus on what's true. Episode Highlights: Why marriages are especially vulnerable to believing harmful lies—and when that risk is highest How stress, unmet expectations, and emotional distance distort the way we see our spouse Practical ways to recognize lies, replace them with truth, and rebuild connection Quotes from this Episode: Quotes from Dr. Kim "Marriage is an adventure full of highs and lows, good and bad." "We live in a culture that tells us we should be happy above all." "The greatest marriage advice is to ask how can I be a better husband." "I think if you do the things that we, if couples do the things we're talking about today, you are laying the foundation for those empty nest years to be something very, very special."   Quotes from Greg Smalley: "Differences are never the problem. The truth is differences are beautiful." "What creates true connection, what creates intimacy, is safety." "I want to be the one to love her in that way by affirming her." "The key is for you to become that perfect person to marry." "I want my wife's heart rendered open to me." "It changes our marriages when we start caring about how our spouse felt."  "I want to create a campfire with my wife that we just want to linger around and just enjoy each other." "Instead of thinking about resolving conflict, think about how do we repair conflict." Time to Talk About it:  What's a negative thought or assumption I've been believing about you or our marriage lately—and is it actually true? When we're stressed or things aren't going how we expected, what stories do we tend to tell ourselves about each other? What's one simple thing we could do this week to feel more safe, connected, and quick to repair things when they go sideways?   Mentioned in This Episode: Check out Greg Smalley and Focus with the Family Get a copy of 9 Lies that will Destroy Your Marriage Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Make sure you're checking in with your spouse every week with our FREE Weekly Marriage Check in Guide! Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Dr. Kim takes everyday 'traffic signs' that we all encounter and applies them to growing your marriage relationship in this plan: Traffic Signs and Your Marriage - Part 1 If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive exclusive content from Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy as well as our resource of the month! Become a Marriage Changer today!
• Loving Through the Little Things: Letting Go of Assumptions Ep. 725 28.04.2026 18мин

  Most of us have experienced that shift in marriage—where the little quirks that once felt endearing during dating suddenly become everyday annoyances. The real challenge comes when those small frustrations start to build, creating distance, resentment, and barriers to connection. And often, it's not just the habits themselves—but the assumptions we attach to them—that carry the most power, quietly shaping how we see and respond to our spouse. In this episode, Dr. Kim and Mrs. Nancy share practical ways to keep the small things from becoming big issues. They talk about the power of open and honest communication, setting realistic expectations, and choosing grace in the moments it's needed most—especially when assumptions threaten to take over. Our hope is that this conversation encourages you to strengthen your connection and approach the little things in your marriage with greater understanding, intention, and grace. Episode Highlights: Assumptions do not help the marriage relationship. Open communication is key to highlighting the differences in your relationship and developing an alternate way to move forward together. Quotes from this Episode: You begin to think God made a mistake, which He doesn't. The way I think about Nancy, is going to impact the way I treat her. When you start thinking negatively toward someone, just stop and lay it at the Lords' feet.  God wants us to have a good marriage. He gave it as a gift to us so He wants it to be good. It's hard to build a case against Nancy, when I'm taking her to the Lord in prayer. Marriage doesn't have to be complicated. God didn't create it as this maze we have to figure our way through. Time to Talk About it:  When's the last time you prayed for the Lord to help you see your spouse the way He sees them.  Is there something you need to share with you spouse that you've been viewing negatively? Something that is going unmentioned and ignored? Take time to write down 10 things you love or admire about your spouse. Now share it with them.  Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Make sure you're checking in with your spouse every week with our FREE Weekly Marriage Check in Guide! Your words, your tone, your attitude- they all matter in how your spouse hears you and how connected your marriage feels. Check out our new devotional: Cut the Criticism and Cultivate Companionship in Marriage Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Have negative thoughts about your spouse slowly replaced the positive ones? You need to start Mind Craft: Take Your Thoughts Captive to Transform Your Marriage today! If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive our Most Popular Resource Bundle — 10 powerful marriage tools with a combined value of $185. Become a Marriage Changer today!
• Wider Lens: All Things Together: Apprenticeship to Jesus in a Fragmented World with Heath Hardesty 24.04.2026 48мин

  In this episode, Dr. Kim talks with author and pastor Heath Hardesty about his new book, All Things Together. Heath shares how his time apprenticing under his earthly father became a living picture of what it means to be an apprentice of our Heavenly Father. They discuss what it looks like to live as image bearers in a fragmented world, why discipleship is more than "extra credit," and how God redeems, not erases, our humanity. Together, they unpack how to see with wonder again, order our imagination around Christ, and live a whole, beautiful life that reflects Him.   Episode Takeaways: Wholeness comes from staying connected, not from doing more. Slowing down is often the most spiritual thing we can do. God loves us and desires to dwell with us. Our focus and intention shape the way we experience life and who we become. Life feels scattered because we're often living disconnected from what truly grounds us. Our actions are connected to our faith. We ache and long for relationship with our Creator. He is a good Father. Quotes from this Episode: How we imagine the world really affects how we inhabit it. Technology can connect, but the digital world often pulls us apart—scattering our presence across time and place until we forget what it means to truly be together. When we take things out of context and mix the sacred with the trivial, our souls are shaped by confusion and chaos. God weaves beauty from even the most ordinary or unwanted chapters of our stories—if we let Him, nothing is wasted. We are made to be apprentices of the Master—union, abiding, obeying, and becoming like Him is the heart of how we truly change. Faith isn't just belief in our heads—it's trust that spills out through our hands, our words, our feet, our relationships. It's embodied and lived. Serving others, especially those closest to us, by following Christ's example, transforms both them and us. True love is found in humble service. Faith has everything to do with our hands, our feet, our mouth, and our relationships. It's an embodied thing.   Reflect on This: Where does life feel most rushed right now? How can you invite Jesus into this space instead of just trying harder? What small daily habit or rhythm is shaping you the most right now, for better or for worse? If following Jesus is more about apprenticeship than perfection, what is one simple practice you could lean into this week to stay more connected to Him?   Mentioned in this Episode: Never miss a Wider Lens episode. Listen here. Heath Hardesty is on Instagram. Purchase All Things Together: How Apprenticeship to Jesus Is the Way of Flourishing in a Fragmented World by Heath Hardesty Find Dr. Kim on Instagram  
• Is there a Place for Pride in Marriage? Ep. 724 21.04.2026 19мин

  We've all heard the proverb that pride comes before the fall—but is there a place for pride in our relationships at all? Today, Dr. Kim takes an honest look at pride in marriage: its roots, its power, and its ability to divide even the strongest relationships. You'll be encouraged to recognize where pride may be creeping in, what it's actually revealing about your own heart, and practical ways to get it under control. Dr. Kim also addresses how to love and set healthy boundaries with a spouse who is struggling with pride—without enabling, escalating conflict, or losing yourself in the process.   Episode Highlights: Pride quietly erodes connection. Pride reveals what's happening in the heart. Healthy humility creates stronger, safer relationships. It's ok to name the unhealthy rhythms in your marriage. It's not ok to remain in them.    Quotes from this Episode: Unchecked pride leads to chronic resentment. Many affairs and separations trace back to one thing. One spouse spends years feeling like they couldn't be heard, valued or respected.  When we make a mistake pride tells us to minimize it or justify it.  Healthy confidence says "I have value and so does my spouse." Pride says "I have value and my spouse needs to recognize it." Confidence can receive correction. Pride can't.  Pride builds a wall one brick at a time. Every unapologized offense was a brick. Every conversation where one spouse lectured instead of listened. Every eye roll- a brick. You don't want to just endure an unhealthy dynamic without ever naming it. That's not humility that is enabling.  Time to Talk About it:  Where do you think pride shows up most in our relationship—during conflict, communication, or something else? When you feel unheard or unvalued, how do you usually respond—and do you think pride plays a role in that reaction? What's one practical way we could replace pride with humility in our marriage this week? Mentioned in This Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Make sure you're checking in with your spouse every week with our FREE Weekly Marriage Check in Guide! Your words, your tone, your attitude- they all matter in how your spouse hears you and how connected your marriage feels. Check out our new devotional: Cut the Criticism and Cultivate Companionship in Marriage Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Have negative thoughts about your spouse slowly replaced the positive ones? You need to start Mind Craft: Take Your Thoughts Captive to Transform Your Marriage today! If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer this month, you'll receive our Most Popular Resource Bundle — 10 powerful marriage tools with a combined value of $185. Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• Tried and True with Dana Che: What Biblical Marriages Teach Us About Ours Ep. 723 14.04.2026 1ч 8мин

  Marriage has a way of bringing our imperfections to the surface—and if we're honest, that can feel frustrating, discouraging, and even isolating at times. But what if those struggles aren't something to hide…what if they're actually where God's grace shows up most? In this episode, we're talking about how the imperfect stories we see throughout Scripture mirror our own and remind us that we're not alone in the mess. We'll unpack what it really looks like to build intimacy through vulnerability, why accepting each other's brokenness matters more than having it all together, and how God's unconditional love can shift the way you see yourself and your spouse. If you've ever felt like your marriage falls short of the ideal, this conversation will remind you that God does some of His best work right in the middle of it. Episode Highlights: The people in the Bible weren't perfect—and that's exactly where God's grace shows up, just like it does in our marriages. Real intimacy doesn't come from having it all together—it comes from being honest, letting your guard down, and choosing to love each other in the middle of the imperfections. When we truly understand God's unconditional love, it changes everything.   Quotes from this Episode: I think we all have a tendency to let other people define who we are and we've got to keep our eyes on him." I love that scripture in 1 John 4 all the time, you know, we love because He first loved us.- Dana Che People have this idea that people in the Bible are saints… I really wanted to show the humanity of the people in scripture. Just like us they struggled with their faith.- Dana Che Williams We can't project the image of God if we are hiding. If we are pretending. -Dana Che We are broken people who married broken people. - Dana Che Even if people reject you, God does not reject you. - Dana Che Williams We must get our worth and our value from the Lord.- Dana Che Williams We have to be tethered in. We have to be tied together, so that when the storms of life or the gentle everyday situations of life, we aren't disconnecting.  I can't be led by my feelings. I have to pray about my feelings. I have to submit my heart before the Lord. He wants your marriage to work. He wants every marriage to work.- Dr. Kim There is so much beauty in the suffering if we will just endure it.  Time to Talk About it:  Do you feel like you play second fiddle to anything in your spouse's life? Have you shared that with them? What routines and rhythms can we put in place to fight against the disconnect?  Are there things we did before marriage, that we have stopped doing? How can we bring that excitement back to our marriage today? What can the two of you be working on together to grow the Kingdom of God? (If you don't have an answer, take the time now to go to the Lord in prayer) Mentioned in This Episode: Connect with Dana Che Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Make sure you're checking in with your spouse every week with our FREE Weekly Marriage Check in Guide! Our Reframing Challenge will help you view your spouse through the lens of God. Once a year we do something HUGE! 10 resources for one donation. Don't miss our April bundle- your marriage will thank you for it! Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Have negative thoughts about your spouse slowly replaced the positive ones? You need to start Mind Craft: Take Your Thoughts Captive to Transform Your Marriage today! If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer you'll receive our Most Popular Resource Bundle — 10 powerful marriage tools with a combined value of $185. Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• Guardrails in Marriage with Jim Ramos Ep. 722 07.04.2026 1ч 2мин

  Most couples are unintentionally at risk of making one decision that can change their marriage forever. Jim Ramos shares the powerful guardrails that protect and strengthen your marriage, drawing from personal stories, biblical wisdom, and decades of ministry experience. His insight will challenge everything you thought you knew about love, trust, and biblical fidelity—showing you how to avoid costly mistakes and build an unbreakable, joy-filled partnership. You'll discover: Why most problems in marriage boil down to one choice and how guardrails can save you The crucial boundaries that keep temptation at bay—living above reproach and emotional connection How to build walls of protection around your wife's heart and why framing her well is your greatest act of love The importance of intentionality, regular check-ins, and prayer in cultivating a thriving relationship The biblical foundation of mutual submission, respect, and standing back-to-back as life partners This episode isn't just theory—Jim shares real stories, practical guardrails, and tangible steps you can take today. Whether you're engaged, newly married, or decades in, the principles here will help you lead with integrity and love. Don't leave your marriage to chance—discover how purposeful boundaries create a legacy of unbreakable trust, happiness, and spiritual harmony. Perfect for husbands and wives committed to God's design, or anyone ready to fight for a marriage that lasts a lifetime. Because in God's family, guarding your marriage isn't restriction, it's the freedom to love fearlessly.   Quotes from this Episode: Jim Ramos: "Guardrails in marriage are not restrictions but powerful safeguards that create freedom by preventing destructive choices." Jim Ramos: "The root cause of most marital failures is a single, stupid choice away—guardrails act as proactive filters to avoid those pitfalls." Jim Ramos: "Effective leadership in marriage involves presiding over, protecting, and providing—like building walls and inspecting walls—rather than striving for equality." Jim Ramos: "Cultivating a shared journey towards Jesus strengthens marriage intrinsically; the closer couples move to Christ, the closer they become to each other." Jim Ramos: "Raising children and managing a stress-filled life require intentional prioritization—placing marriage second only to Jesus—otherwise, chaos undermines core relationships." Jim Ramos: "The story loops we build through unguarded conversations and stories can open doors for rumors, damaging trust." Jim Ramos: "Personal renewal in marriage is never too late; repentance and redirection through guardrails are always available, transforming failure into unbreakable bonds." Dr. Kim: "I think guardrails in marriage, to me, just pictures, man, you're protecting your marriage." Dr. Kim: "If we begin to think we're not vulnerable, we're really in trouble because we all are." Dr. Kim: "I think Satan wants us to fool us into thinking that he's not causing any trouble or that he's just maybe not even there." Dr. Kim: "I think when a man gets it, everyone wins, right? So when men step into that role, then the women naturally get rally around it." Dr. Kim: "I think intentionality, we don't realize how much that makes a difference. And our wives notice that."   Time to Talk About it: What is one guardrail you'd like to see implemented in your marriage to strengthen and protect it? What is one step we can take today to make our marriage more of a priority? How can you begin to support one another spiritually so that your relationship with Jesus will grow? How can you see that shaping your marriage?   Mentioned in This Episode:   Once a year we do something HUGE! 10 resources for one donation. Don't miss our April bundle- your marriage will thank you for it! Check out Jim Ramos and Men in the Arena. Men- check out their instagram page. Wives- share their page with your husband. Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Make sure you're checking in with your spouse every week with our FREE Weekly Marriage Check in Guide! We believe in boundaries as tools to protect your marriage and give you freedom to enjoy your marriage. Here's a tool to help you protect your marriage. Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Need a place to start discussing boundaries? God's Word is the perfect place to start and we have created a plan just for you: Boundaries in Marriage If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !  It's the perfect time to become a Marriage Changer! When you become a Marriage Changer, you'll receive our Most Popular Resource Bundle — 10 powerful marriage tools with a combined value of $185. Become a Marriage Changer today!  
• Addressing Narcissistic Patterns in Marriage Ep. 721 31.03.2026 10мин

  We've explored the spectrum of narcissism, now it's time to dive into what you can do when those patterns show up in your marriage. Dr. Kim shares how to discern when to speak up and when to self-reflect, how to cultivate an atmosphere for healthy conversation, and why boundaries are essential for meaningful connection.   Episode Takeaways: Forgiveness is not pretending something didn't happen.  Trust has to be built consistently over time.  Being a good christian spouse does not mean absorbing pain.  When you see the same behaviors repeatedly, it's time to do something.  Language matters when having productive conversations. Change starts with responsibility, not accusation. God sees you and He is near!   Quotes from this Episode: You can forgive someone and still require accountability. Healthy relationships don't make you feel like you're losing your mind.  Keep love as the goal.  Boundaries aren't unloving, they are essential. Patterns that took years to develop don't disappear in just weeks.  Labels can explain behavior, but they rarely heal relationships. Defensiveness feels safe, but it slowly kills intimacy. You can't control your spouse's willingness to change — but you can control your own humility. Most marriages don't break from one big issue, but from unaddressed patterns over time. Healing begins when curiosity replaces accusation.   Take Time to Talk About It: What narcissistic or self-protective patterns do you notice repeating in your marriage? How does defensiveness show up for you — and what is it usually trying to protect? What would it look like to take responsibility for your part without minimizing the pain you've experienced?   Mentioned in this Episode: Awesome Marriage is on Instagram! Make sure you're checking in with your spouse every week! Your words, your tone, your attitude- they all matter in how your spouse hears you and how connected your marriage feels. Check out our new devotional: Cut the Criticism and Cultivate Companionship Want an opportunity to dig into God's Word with your spouse? Find Awesome Marriage on YouVersion. Continue growing in love and intimacy, don't stop Pursuing Your Spouse in Marriage. If you haven't browsed our site, you've GOT to check out the marriage resources we have over at AwesomeMarriage.com, and browse our online courses at AwesomeMarriageUniversity.com !